2018 Mazda 3 Tire Pressure Warning Light Stays On

Common Causes for the Tire Pressure Warning Light in Your 2018 Mazda 3 and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Tire Leaking Air
0%
30% chance it's the
Wheel Leaking Air
0%
15% chance it's the
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
0%
15% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2018 Mazda 3 tire pressure warning light stays on are a leaking tire, a wheel that no longer holds air, or a faulty tire pressure monitoring system.
  • Tire Leaking Air: A puncture, valve stem issue, or rim damage can cause a tire to leak air, leading to loss of pressure.
  • Wheel Leaking Air: A puncture or damage to the tire or rim can cause air to leak, resulting in a loss of tire pressure.
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System: A malfunctioning tire pressure monitoring system can be caused by faulty sensors or a dead battery in the sensor units.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2018 Mazda 3 tire pressure warning light stays on?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

When a relearn is needed, for any reason, the TPMS warning light will illuminate, and many vehicles will display a message relating to the TPMS system being inoperative or loosing communication. It is important to keep a watchful eye on tire pressures when this system is having issues because there is no warning available for underinflation or overinflation of the tires.

Wheels offer very few symptoms, but these symptoms should never be ignored. Visible cracks on the wheels may appear, especially after hitting a large bump, Most often, this will also be accompanied by loss of air from the tire on that wheel. Also, vibration in the steering wheel is very common when the tire is out of balance, and improper wheel nuts or bolts can cause creaking and popping noises to develop. Again, there are very few symptoms, but they should not be ignored.

The only symptoms requiring diagnosis for the tire pressure monitoring system warning lamp is if the warning lamp has illuminated while the tires have correct air pressure, or if the air pressure for the tires is out of specification and the warning lamp is off. This is because the overwhelming majority of cases where the TPMS lamp illuminates is due to the change in ambient temperature.

What steps should I take to diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in my 2018 Mazda 3?

To effectively diagnose the tire pressure warning light issue in your 2018 Mazda 3, begin with a straightforward approach that prioritizes simple solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the tire pressure in all four tires using a reliable tire pressure gauge, ensuring that each tire is inflated to the recommended PSI as indicated in your owner's manual or on the driver's side door jamb. Next, conduct a thorough visual inspection of each tire for any signs of damage, such as punctures or bulges, which could lead to air loss. If you find any discrepancies in tire pressure, adjust accordingly by either inflating or deflating the tires to meet the specified levels. After making these adjustments, it may be necessary to reset the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) to clear the warning light; refer to your owner's manual for specific reset instructions. Additionally, don’t overlook the spare tire, as a low-pressure spare can also trigger the warning light. If the warning persists despite these checks, it may indicate a more serious issue with the TPMS sensors or system, at which point consulting a mechanic or dealership for professional diagnosis is advisable. By following this methodical approach, you can efficiently address the tire pressure warning light issue and ensure your vehicle's safety and performance.

What are the common problems that could cause the tire pressure warning light to stay on in a 2018 Mazda 3?

When the tire pressure warning light remains illuminated in your 2018 Mazda 3, it’s essential to understand the potential issues that could be causing this alert. The most frequent culprit is low tire pressure, which can occur due to a puncture, a slow leak, or simply the natural loss of air over time. Regularly checking your tire pressure with a reliable gauge can help you identify if this is the issue. Another possibility is a faulty tire pressure sensor; if the sensor is malfunctioning, it may not provide accurate readings, leading to the warning light staying on. Additionally, the sensors are equipped with batteries that can deplete over time, necessitating replacement to ensure proper functionality. If you suspect a sensor issue, inspecting the sensor for damage or corrosion can be beneficial. Furthermore, if the tire pressure monitoring system has not been calibrated correctly, it may yield incorrect readings, keeping the warning light active. To maintain your vehicle's safety and performance, it’s crucial to address these issues promptly, ensuring that your tires are properly inflated and that the monitoring system is functioning as intended. Regular maintenance and checks can prevent these problems from escalating.

How urgent is it to address the tire pressure warning light that stays on in a 2018 Mazda 3?

Addressing the tire pressure warning light in your 2018 Mazda 3 is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical safety concern that requires immediate attention. When this warning light remains illuminated, it signals that your tires may be underinflated, which can severely compromise your vehicle's handling and braking capabilities. This increases the likelihood of accidents, making it essential to check your tire pressure as soon as possible. Additionally, driving on improperly inflated tires can lead to uneven wear, significantly shortening their lifespan and necessitating costly replacements sooner than expected. Furthermore, underinflated tires can negatively impact your fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel costs over time. Ignoring this warning can also result in tire damage, which may require professional intervention. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly monitor your tire pressure and address any warning lights promptly to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle.

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2018 Mazda 3 Tire Pressure Warning Light: Causes & Solutions